In the heart of South Korea, researchers are redefining the future of vertical farming, and their findings could revolutionize the way we grow medicinal plants. Ye Lin Kim, a dedicated scientist from the Department of GreenBio Science at Gyeongsang National University, has been delving into the intricate world of light manipulation to enhance the growth and medicinal value of Codonopsis lanceolata, commonly known as bellflower root or deodeok.
Kim’s latest study, published in the journal Frontiers in Plant Science, explores how different ratios of red to far-red (R/FR) light can significantly impact the growth and bioactive compound accumulation in deodeok sprouts. This research is not just about growing plants; it’s about optimizing vertical farming techniques to produce high-value crops more efficiently.
Vertical farming, with its promise of year-round crop production and reduced environmental impact, is gaining traction in the energy sector. By integrating advanced lighting technologies, farmers can create controlled environments that maximize growth while minimizing resource use. Kim’s research takes this a step further by fine-tuning the light spectrum to enhance both the yield and the medicinal properties of deodeok.
The study involved growing deodeok sprouts under four different R/FR light conditions: white light (as a control), R/FR 3.0, R/FR 1.2, and R/FR 0.75. The results were striking. “Adding far-red light effectively increased the fresh and dry weight, plant height, leaf area, and node number,” Kim explained. But the benefits didn’t stop at biomass. The total phenolic content, flavonoid levels, and antioxidant capacity also saw significant boosts at lower R/FR ratios.
One of the key findings was the impact on Lancemaside A, a valuable saponin found in deodeok. The content of Lancemaside A per plant was higher under far-red light supplementation compared to white light, although it slightly reduced at the lowest R/FR ratio of 0.75. This suggests that while far-red light is beneficial, there’s a sweet spot that needs to be found to avoid inhibitory effects.
So, what does this mean for the future of vertical farming and the energy sector? For starters, it opens up new possibilities for growing high-value medicinal plants in controlled environments. By optimizing the light spectrum, farmers can produce crops with enhanced bioactive compounds, making them more valuable for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. This could lead to increased profitability and sustainability in vertical farming operations.
Moreover, the energy sector stands to benefit from more efficient lighting strategies. As vertical farms become more prevalent, the demand for energy-efficient lighting solutions will grow. Kim’s research provides a roadmap for developing lighting systems that not only support plant growth but also enhance the medicinal value of crops.
As we look to the future, the integration of advanced lighting technologies and vertical farming techniques holds immense potential. Kim’s work is a testament to the power of scientific innovation in shaping the future of agriculture and energy. By harnessing the power of light, we can create more sustainable, efficient, and profitable farming systems that benefit both people and the planet.